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Kinds of Values

Kinds of Values
Values are naturally of two kinds. These are extrinsic values and Intrinsic values:

Intrinsic Values
These are the values that are expected of every citizen because they mold the destiny of individuals and the nation. They are enduring and expected to be pervading. They are internalized norms, ideas and ideals which the families, schools, churches, mosques, different society and government make efforts to instill in individuals and citizens.
These values include justice, selflessness, love, respect for constituted authority, education, faith in God, trust, community work for development, work for livelihood, respect for others’ opinions and culture, tolerance, quality leadership and exemplary lifestyle.

Extrinsic Values
Extrinsic values are those values which we desire because they help us to acquire intrinsic values. Their values depends on how, or, to the extent they help us acquire more lasting or enduring values. They are time bound and often short-lived.
They could be human or non-human, material or immaterial. They are auxiliary in nature. For instance, a teacher who imparted knowledge on a child has extrinsic value while the knowledge has an intrinsic value. The history book we read about the Nigeria Civil War possesses extrinsic value while the knowledge and lessons, therefore, have intrinsic value.
Extrinsic values are usually formulated, organized and established by society; family and government to enable us achieve a more enduring value. Extrinsic values become useful to the extent we are able to make use of them. The society encourages good relations and exchanges, government makes law and mount programmes while families teach obedience, honesty, selflessness, purity, love, etc. which help in shaping life and activities.

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